LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - A spokesman for the Arkansas Capitol Arts and Grounds Commission says construction is set to begin later this spring on a new firefighter memorial on the grounds of the state Capitol.

The commission on Tuesday voted to approve the installation of an amphitheater on the west side of the capitol complex that will feature statues of firefighters, granite panels and a fountain, spokesman Alex Reid said.

The project is being privately funded by the Arkansas Fallen Firefighters, which has been pursuing the memorial for eight years, he said. Construction is set to begin soon after the legislative session ends in April and is expected to be completed by October when the memorial will be dedicated.